Backdrop preview Bully backdrop
Bully

Bully (2001)

Jun 15, 2001 1h 53m Crime Drama

This is the true story of Bobby Kent, a teen bully in the suburban town of Hollywood, Florida. Eventually, his best friend and girlfriend team up with the various other kids that are tired of getting beat up by him. Included in that group are the overweight Lisa Connelly. Together, seven teenagers lure Bobby out, deep into the swamp, promising him sex and drugs and when they get there, they beat him to death with baseball bats....

Watch Trailer
Directed by Larry Clark

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Larry Clark
Producer
  • Don Murphy
  • Chris Hanley
  • David McKenna
  • Fernando Sulichin

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Bully examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Larry Clark brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2001, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Bully took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 113 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 943 individual shots.
  • The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 2001, when this film is released:
  • Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
  • Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While Bully shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Another Promise, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Bully offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Straw Dogs and Double Indemnity explore similar territory, Bully stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: June 15, 2001
  • Runtime: 1h 53m
  • Revenue: $480,811

Where to Watch

MovieSphere+ Amazon Channel

Similar Movies